India Begins Sri Lanka Test Series Preparations in Colombo

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has urged the Shubman Gill-led Test squad to prepare mentally and physically for every challenge ahead of the two-match series against Sri Lanka. The opening Test begins in Galle on August 15, with India aiming to start strongly regardless of whether they bat or bowl first.

The Indian team began training at Colombo’s NCC Ground on Wednesday morning after arriving in Sri Lanka. The visitors will play a three-day practice match at the same venue from August 7 to 9 before travelling to Galle. The warm-up fixture will allow the players to adjust to local conditions and assess possible combinations for the series opener.

In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Gambhir reminded the squad of the importance of using every training session effectively. He encouraged the players to increase their workload, push their limits and complete all necessary preparations before the first morning of the series so they are ready to respond to any situation.

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The second and final Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27. The series carries significance for both sides in the World Test Championship standings. India currently occupy fifth position with a points percentage of 48.150, while Sri Lanka are sixth with a points percentage of 41.67.

Gambhir also welcomed off-spin bowling all-rounder Saransh Jain and pacer Auqib Nabi to India’s Test setup. He congratulated Saransh for earning his place through sustained hard work and encouraged him to make his family and country proud if selected. The coach also praised Auqib following an impressive domestic season and Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy success.

New fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh was also formally welcomed into the group. Gambhir said Ghosh’s experience working with several teams, along with his commitment, passion and energy, could help India achieve their objectives. The coaching staff will use the practice match to evaluate the squad before finalising plans for the opening Test in Galle.

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